Agro-processing, manufacturing to be developed in Essequibo with new industrial estate

As part of plans to diversify the economy and provide additional income generation activities for Guyanese, the government is exploring the possibility of establishing an industrial estate in Region Two (Pomeroon- Supenaam).

Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond announced that this industrial estate is expected to facilitate the development of agro-processing and small-scale manufacturing in the region. She said this while engaging residents of Charity, Region Two, during a Cabinet outreach there on Saturday.

The minister said that efforts are being made to diversify the local economy, instead of solely focusing on works in single sectors. In Region Two, where much of the economic activity is underpinned by the agricultural sector, she said that agro-processing and manufacturing- to produce, develop and package agricultural produce is a crucial consideration.

And already, she highlighted: “(We are) doing a feasibility study for an industrial estate right here in Region Two.

“… (we) realise that agro-processing and small-scale manufacturing can be a way of building up economic activity.”

According to a published Request for Proposal, from the Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce, the ministry was exploring the construction of the industrial estate at Onderneeming in Region Two.

Walrond noted that the government is not only exploring this, but efforts will be made to train residents to get involved in other sectors or to advance works in sectors they are working in. She also said that land and other support could be provided so that people can get involved in this development.